At first it was held at the same time as the Archibald Prize, but it’s popularity and significance demanded its own part of the calendar later in the year. Valued at $10,000 it attracts entries from top line artists from all over Australia. Not only are the entries of high standard, the judging has been consistent with a succession of beautiful and powerful drawings emerging from the winners list.

William Dobell was a three times winner of the Archibald Prize and one of Australia’s greatest artists. His drawings are amongst his best work.